PUD commissioners discuss projects and courthouse sign

By Stacey Lane

The PUD commissioners met with the exception of Gene Healy, who was excused to serve on jury duty. Manager Dan Kay is proud of the work being done by the PUD staff and crews. “The PUD is getting stuff done. With the sun coming out, more customer jobs are getting started”. The infrastructure projects are moving along quickly. The looping project work on Puget Island will be starting next week. The PUD is estimating that it will take 4-6 weeks to complete. Broadband is being installed by Charter and WWest to include the East Valley. The PUD has been prepping the poles for the installations. The auditor’s report reflected the FEMA grants being closed out. They were started in 2021. The Senior and Disability programs are seeing increased eligibility. This program is in conjunction with Wahkiakum Health and Human Services. There is concern about the future of energy supplies as the state moves to enact clean energy sources. “If we have an increase in energy consumption during the cold winter months or in a crisis, will we be able to keep the lights on? We are working with the BPA to solve these issues before they happen”, said the commissioners. The new 20-year BPA contract will be signed next year. Finally, Commissioner Jungers updated the work being done to the sign that hangs in front of the courthouse. The poles were replaced last year as a volunteer effort by the PUD. The sign is being rebuilt by Elochoman Millworks. Jungers estimates that it will be ready to place next week.